Rock legend Bruce Springsteen uses Manchester concert to call out Trump’s leadership and rally fans against authoritarianism, declaring music’s power in “dangerous times”
Bruce Springsteen Blasts Trump Administration at Manchester Concert: “Let Freedom Ring”
Bruce Springsteen isn’t holding back anymore. The rock icon and legendary frontman of the E Street Band once kept his political commentary measured, but on Wednesday night in Manchester, England — the opening show of his 2025 European tour — he made his stance unmistakably clear.
“The mighty E Street Band is here tonight to call upon the righteous power of art, of music, of rock ‘n roll in dangerous times,” Springsteen told the crowd. “In my home, the America I love… is currently in the hands of a corrupt, incompetent, and treasonous administration.”
Calling for unity and resistance against what he described as creeping authoritarianism, Springsteen urged his audience to “rise with us, raise your voices against authoritarianism and let freedom ring!”
His pointed remarks come as no surprise to those who’ve followed the musician’s evolving political engagement. While Springsteen initially showed restraint during Donald Trump’s presidency, he slowly intensified his criticism — notably using his Broadway residency to highlight themes of social justice and democratic values.
In a 2017 interview with Variety, Springsteen explained his early hesitation: “I still believe people fundamentally come to music to be entertained… yes, to address their daily concerns… but it’s still an affair of the heart.” However, by the time the 2024 election cycle rolled around, he was actively campaigning for Democratic candidate Kamala Harris, saying at a rally, “Donald Trump is running to be an American tyrant.”
Springsteen endorsed Harris and her running mate Tim Walz, declaring: “He does not understand this country, its history, or what it means to be deeply American.”
With a packed stadium and the roar of fans behind him, Springsteen’s message in Manchester fused music and protest — reminding the world of his enduring power not only as a performer but as a cultural conscience in turbulent times.